Villa tried to sign Liverpool striker Rickie Lambert on deadline day, only for the 32-year-old to stay at Anfield.

Villa boss Lambert is unlikely to rest Benteke against Chelsea but was keen to bring another striker in to ease the burden.

'If I bought another striker in the window I could play with two up front and take the spotlight off him,' he said.

'He knows himself things aren't going his way but the club, his team-mates and staff will try everything they can do to help him.

Villa tried to sign Liverpool striker Rickie Lambert (right) on deadline day but he chose to stay at Anfield

'I'm pretty sure he is probably getting advice from every quarter, I have spoken to him and I'm sure his parents, agent and all those sort of people have.

'He is a young guy and has only been in this country for three years. The big thing was the impact he made here at the beginning of his career. It was so big and the spotlight was on him so when he hits a drop it's more noticeable.

'We have to protect him as well and watch him. He will come back stronger, I have no doubt whatsoever.

'If he can get back to the heights where he was before he can be unplayable.'